Port Harcourt, Rivers State – The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has called on the Rivers State government to provide additional hostel facilities at the state’s orientation camp to address the growing number of corps members deployed to the state. The appeal was made during an advocacy visit to the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
In a statement issued by Caroline Embu, Acting Director of Information and Public Relations for the NYSC, Brig. Gen. Nafiu highlighted the significant increase in the corps population, with the scheme now mobilizing approximately 400,000 corps members annually nationwide. This surge has led to a higher allocation of corps members to Rivers State, necessitating urgent upgrades to camp facilities, particularly hostel accommodations, to ensure a conducive environment for the three-week orientation exercise.
“The orientation camp is the corps members’ first point of contact with the NYSC and the foundation for their national service experience,” Nafiu stated. “It must be safe and conducive to effectively prepare them for nation-building tasks.” He noted that corps members at the Rivers State Orientation Camp were in high spirits and eager to contribute to the state’s development.
In response, Vice-Admiral Ibas expressed the state government’s commitment to supporting the NYSC. He pledged to enhance the feeding of corps members during the orientation exercise and augment their monthly stipends. Additionally, Ibas promised to review the request for improved camp facilities, with a focus on expanding hostel accommodations to better serve the increasing number of corps members.
The call for improved facilities comes as Rivers State navigates its ongoing emergency administration, declared by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025, amid political tensions. The NYSC’s request underscores the importance of ensuring a supportive environment for young Nigerians serving in Port Harcourt and across the state.
Community Impact and Next Steps
This development highlights the critical role of the NYSC in fostering youth engagement and development in Rivers State. Improved camp facilities could enhance the experience of corps members, enabling them to make meaningful contributions to Port Harcourt’s growth. Residents are encouraged to support this initiative by advocating for better resources for the NYSC and engaging with local authorities.
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